How to Start a STIHL Chainsaw
To ensure a safe and effective start, it's essential to understand the proper procedure for your STIHL chainsaw. Clear instructions for both M-Tronic and non-M-Tronic models.
How to Prepare a Safe Work Area
- Only operate your chainsaw outdoors or in very well-ventilated spaces. Petrol chainsaws produce toxic fumes that can be invisible but harmful.
- Check the ground for hazards such as wet leaves, bark, ice, snow, or steep slopes that may cause slips or trips.
- Always keep bystanders, especially children, well away from your work zone.
Before You Start
Always keep the following safety tips in mind before using your STIHL chainsaw:
- Carry out refuelling at least 3 metres away from your working area.
- Maintain a clear escape route and be aware of hidden obstacles.
- Wear the correct PPE (helmet, gloves, boots, and chainsaw trousers) and check it's in good condition.
Starting Sequence: Non-M-Tronic Models
- Chain brake: push the chain brake handle forward to engage it.
- Scabbard: remove the scabbard before starting.
- Decompression valve: if fitted, press it to reduce starting effort.
- Primer: if fitted, press the primer bulb several times to ease starting.
- Master control lever: set to choke (cold start) by pressing the throttle lock and throttle, then moving the lever to the lowest position.
- Place & stabilise: place the saw on level ground (bar not touching ground); left hand on the front handle, right hand on the starter rope, right foot through the rear handle.
- Pull starter cord: pull straight up, slowly until resistance, then firmly until the engine fires. If it fires but dies, move to half-throttle and pull again.
- Tap throttle & lift: tap the throttle briefly to set idle, then lift the saw slowly without touching the throttle.
- Release chain brake: release it (you should hear a click) and check chain lubrication by holding the running saw over light timber — you should see an oil trail.
If problems persist, contact a STIHL dealer.
Starting Sequence: M-Tronic Models
M-Tronic reduces the number of start steps with electronic management. Follow this simplified sequence:
- Chain brake: engage it by pushing the brake handle forward.
- Master control lever: set to the start position (▲) — M-Tronic adapts ignition settings automatically.
- Place, stabilise & pull: place the saw on level ground, stabilise, and pull the starter cord until it starts. M-Tronic removes the need for a second pull on many models.
- Tap throttle, lift, release brake: tap the throttle to set idle, carefully lift the saw, then release the chain brake when ready.
- Check lubrication: verify at full revs (trail of oil on light timber) and follow operating instructions at all times.
Start Demonstration: Knee-Start Your Chainsaw
Helpful Reminders
- If your saw has a primer bulb or decompression valve, use them — they make starting easier.
- If you spill fuel, clean immediately and change clothes — petrol is highly flammable.
- Always read and follow the full operating manual for your specific STIHL model and contact a dealer for model-specific support.
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How do I engage the chain brake before starting?
Before you start the chainsaw, push the chain brake handle forward to engage the brake.
Should I remove the scabbard before starting?
Yes. Always remove the scabbard before you start your chainsaw.
What does the decompression valve do?
If your chainsaw has a decompression valve, pressing it reduces the starting effort and makes pull-starting easier.
Do I need to prime the fuel system?
If your saw has a manual fuel primer bulb, press it several times before starting to reduce the number of starter pulls.
How does starting differ on an M-Tronic saw?
M-Tronic manages ignition automatically and usually requires fewer manual choke steps; set the master control to the start position and pull until the engine starts.
How can I check chain lubrication?
With the chain at full revs, hold the saw over light timber — a visible trail of oil confirms lubrication.